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Managing Food Allergies

Welcome to JMU

JMU Dining is committed to providing nutritious options that fit our students' needs. We support students with food allerges by providing the knowledge and resources necessary for them to make empowered food choices in our dining locations. 

Our goal is to provide students with the tools and support that they need to utilize the dining halls safely while being active in the management of their food allergy/allergies or food-related medical condition(s). 

We take into account each individual student's personal dietary needs and make every effort to help students transition into their new life at James Madison University. GO DUKES!

Your Management

You are the most important advocate for your own health. Please review your responsibilities when managing a food allergy in our dining locations. 

  • Connect with our registed dietition. 
    • Learn how to navigate our dining halls with ease. 
  • Consult with the Office of Disability Services (jmu.edu/ods) for additional accommodations, if necessary. 
  • Be proficient in the self-management of your food allergy/allergies or food-related health condition(s). 
    • Avoid foods to which you are allergic. 
    • Recognize the symptoms of allergic reactions. 
    • Know how and when to tell someone that you may be having an allergy-related problem. 
    • Know how to properly use prescribed medication(s) to treat an allergic reaction. 
    • Carry emergency contact information with you. 
  • If you have questions about ingredients in a particular, direct your questions to our registered dietitian, chef(s), or ask any manager on duty. 
    • If you do not know who these individuals are, please ask a cashier to contact the chef or manager on duty to assist you. 
  • In case of any exposure, carry your medication (ex. EpiPen) with you at all times. 
    • Consider informing friends you normally dine with about your medical needs in case of an emergency. 

Please Note: JMU Dining has stock epinephrine at our residential dining locations (D-Hall & E-Hall) as an emergency precaution. You should carry your prescribed medications with you at all times. 

Your Resources

  • An Individual Informational Meeting With Our On-Site Registered Dietitian
    • Meet with our registered dietitian to develop an individualized plan to navigate the residential dining facilities. 
  • The Chef(s) & Manager(s) on Duty
    • The chef(s) and/or manager(s) on duty are available in our dining locations to address on-site questioins and concerns. 
  • Access to Manufacturer Provided Ingredient Labels and Nutrition Information
    • Contact our on-site registered dietitian about specific products you are interested in reviewing. 
  • Fresh Gloves, Utensils, or Pans
    • Upon request employees at made-to-order stations will use separate equipment (when applicable) to reduce cross-contact concerns. 
  • Access to the Worry-Free Zone
    • The Worry-Free Zone is an isolated, locked pantry sotkced with peanut-free, tree-nut free, and gluten-free products. Students who are medically required to limit or avoid these food items should reach out to our registered dietitian to gain access. 

Additional Resources

If you are not receiving a diverse selection of food from the available resources, you may consult with our registered dietitian to discuss whether additional supports are necessary.